EJIMA

CHAPTER 48

Years have passed since Uche last saw the oscillating skeletons and the feathers that fetter his emotions. Every step forward made him reminisce about how bad an idea coming here was. That someone could live so long in isolation, with horrendous looking creature and still have their sanity was a mystery to him. He had laid so many excuses over the last few years to save himself the horror of living in nightmares and delusion. Last time was bad enough, the diviner—who was also his sister-in-law—claimed that she had everything under control and had assured him that Ejima would be a sorry story. It was soothing words for a hurting soul, or rather, the fuel in a fire. And now he was forced to lay aside his hate and work with the same woman he had sworn to destroy.

The sudden crow on the right side of the road caught Uche’s attention, but he eased his hands from his sword when he saw a raven, pitch-black and looking like hell itself. It was not strange that he had seen two ravens today since he was no longer in the realm of men. Still, the feel of having one of such creatures hanging on the treetops, made his skin crawl. For all he could tell, the bird might be following him, observing, and making sure he was no threat. Some people in the village even believe that ravens were a bad omen, and inquiry from the gods should be made if seen on the break of dawn.

Uche wiped his brow, it was midday, another reason why he wasn’t bothered and was rather concerned about the task ahead. How on earth had he agreed to these terms? He should have allowed his wife to handle the Dibia herself, after all, they were sisters and should keep their bond kindled.

“Is that my honeycomb?” Came the rusty voice of the Dibia from the old hut.

“Good day to you too,” Uche snorted and took the empty seat. 

He was barely seated when the witch walked out from the hut. Her dark hair had lost its grace, probably because she had decided not to bathe or had kept water from ever touching her hair. There were cowries too, matching the chalk eyes but contrasting the red gown which bore dried bones and skin. She was the mediator of men and gods. The most powerful creature in the land.

“How long has it been? Yet here you are, looking fat and sleek,” the Dibia smiled weakly and took Uche’s braided hair. The man flinched but did not beat her hands away.

“Don’t tell me you summoned me here to compliment your sister’s handwork.”

“Summoned you?” 

“Don’t play innocent. I know your scheme when I see one. Tricking your sister into believing that you have all the answers were too extreme. I could read your words in everything she said to me.”

“Don’t blame me,” The Dibia released the strand and finally took the opposite seat, “I missed you, that’s all.”

“It is too late for us now. I married your sister. What will she say if she notices our foul play?”

“Foul play? Humph, you make it sound like a bad thing.”

Uche untied his sword and rested them on the walls. From the corner of his eyes, he saw the two ravens, perching on the tree not so far from the Dibia. They were watching him, he was sure.

“Why am I here? The hunt has begun. And I don’t think you will give me the answers I seek, so why am I here?” 

“Relax,” The Dibia laughed, “I am the greatest witch that has ever lived and I do whatever pleases me. Rules and regulations of the kingdom do not apply to spirit beings like me”

Uche swallowed, “Does that mean you will give me the answers. Will you reveal the place where the ijele was hidden?”

“Of course not.” The Dibia shook her head, “I am bound by the hunting oath. However, I can point you in the right direction. What happens next depends on you and your Chi.”